How to Hire the Best Managed Service Provider

When running a business, there are so many different facets to consider in order to keep operations running smoothly, to stay current with latest trends and grow. One of those facets that every business must think about is the IT department. Even a small business will require a solid IT setup because so much of how we do business is now completed online. Whether it is an online store, computers for research and development, customer service or the company network, IT services are required. And managed services often provide the best value.

But how can a business find the best managed service provider in terms of value and service? Finding the right MSP means identifying the services that matter the most to your business, and figuring out whether a specific provider is offering those services. Detroit IT, for instance, is a managed service provider that offers IT audits, unlimited support, network management, third party management and data setup services. Those services tick a lot of the boxes for many businesses, and they are a good example of the kind of company that provides a reliable option for managed services.

When researching the different options for a MSP, there are other features that you should be concerned about. For instance, it is always a good idea to have a fundamental understanding of how that company operates. What is the company’s organizational structure? Some managed service providers are a one or two-man operation, which can pose problems. You may think you are getting a world class team, but it is just one person who could be busy when you need them the most. In contrast, a team with systems administrators, primary engineers, technicians and backup technicians will be able to offer you a much better level of service.

It is not enough to know that you are dealing with a well-known service provider in the area. Every company must evolve, and IT in particular since the industry is so tied to new technologies. Always ask to see whether the company you are dealing with can provide the necessary certifications and partnerships to showcase its value. These partnerships should exist with vendors, systems providers and other tech companies across the nation. In terms of certifications, you are looking for technicians who can handle Microsoft, CompTIA and CISCO-related setups and troubleshooting.

Finally, you must be certain that a managed service provider is properly insured. In the same way that your company will have business insurance, you must be sure the provider has insurance for general liability and errors. If something goes wrong while a technician is at your offices or providing remote assistance, you will need to know that any potential damage costs are covered by the provider’s insurance coverage. It is too big a risk to deal with an uninsured MSP, as the company would have no way of guaranteeing that you would receive compensation if something were to go wrong during setup or troubleshooting.